Patent — available for licensing
Wearable RFID Sensor Tags With Priority Data Forwarding
A NASA invention available to explore as a licensing opportunity.
About this technology
Overview
Innovators at NASA Johnson Space Center have developed an adaptable Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system that optimizes transmission for priority data as targets move in and out of passive coverage areas. The method extends the range, and reduces data latency, of ultra-low power battery-assisted passive (BAP) RFID sensor tags, improving previously developed store-and-forward techniques to support autonomous operations in complex environments where RFID interrogator access may be strained. This RFID sensor tag technology normally operates in a low-to-no-power mode, collecting data until triggered by a critical event that activates an emergency mode of operation. Once triggered, the tag’s RFID range is boosted using the BAP RFID device’s onboard power supply. This allows RFID application programmers to sacrifice battery life for reduced latency for high-priority sensing applications such as the technology’s original intention to monitor for life-threatening CO2 levels in spacecraft cabins. Wearable RFID Sensor Tags With Priority Data Forwarding is at technology readiness level (TRL) 4 (component performance has been validated in a lab setting) and is now available for licensing. Please note that NASA does not manufacture products itself for commercial sale.